The Government of Sierra Leone has signed a Bill banning child marriage in the country into signed law. The law, which became effective from this month makes it criminal for any girl below 18 years to be married out.
According to report, the Sierra Leonean President, Julius Maada Bio, while signing the Bill into law said it will protect girls. The President noted that a third of girls in the country were before now married even before they reached 18 years.
Recall that the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, had stated that Sierra Leone is home to 800,000 child brides. Half of them married before age 15.
However, under the new law, offenders face up to 15 years in prison or a fine of around $4,000 or both.
According to report, the new law does not spare witnesses of underage marriage. As they will also face jail or a fine or both.
Expressing excitement after signing the Bill, the President commented on social media platform X. He said, “I have always believed that the future of Sierra Leone is female. This and future generations of girls must thrive in Sierra Leone in which they’re protected, equal and empowered.”
Recall that the bill was passed by the Parliament last month, June 21. And in less than three weeks the President signed it into law.
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Bill 2024 includes provisions for ensuring access to education and support services for young girls.
The law according to analysts is considered vital in a country where poverty forces many girls of school age to keep out of school.
Sierra Leone, is one of the countries in West Africa. With its capital in Free Town. It has a population of 9 million people.
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